The summer transfer window may have slammed shut across Europe’s major leagues, but for savvy clubs looking to add proven talent without breaking the bank, the real treasure hunt is just beginning. A constellation of former stars from Europe’s biggest clubs are now available as free agents, offering clubs the chance to land experienced international players at zero transfer cost.
Table of Contents
The Free Agent Gold Rush
Among the most notable names currently available are Arsenal’s former defender Takehiro Tomiyasu, ex-Manchester United midfielder Christian Eriksen, and Morocco’s Hakim Ziyech, who previously dazzled at Chelsea and Ajax. These aren’t your typical cast-offs – they’re seasoned professionals who’ve graced the biggest stages in world football.
FREE Agents: List of Football Stars who are Out of Contract and now Available for Free in 2025
| Player | Position | Age | Last Club | Market Value | Notable Achievements |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Takehiro Tomiyasu | Defender | 26 | Arsenal | €18M | Japan international, Premier League experience |
| Christian Eriksen | Midfielder | 33 | Manchester United | €4M | 130+ Denmark caps, Tottenham legend |
| Hakim Ziyech | Winger | 32 | Al-Duhail | €4.5M | 2022 World Cup semifinalist with Morocco |
| Lorenzo Insigne | Forward | 34 | Toronto FC | €2M | Napoli legend, Italy international |
| Sergio Reguilón | Left-back | 28 | Tottenham | €6M | Real Madrid academy product |
| Kurt Zouma | Defender | 30 | West Ham | €10M | Premier League proven, France international |
| Dele Alli | Midfielder | 29 | Como | €2M | Former England star, Tottenham hero |
| Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain | Midfielder | 31 | Beşiktaş | €3M | Liverpool & Arsenal veteran |
| Wissam Ben Yedder | Forward | 34 | AS Monaco | €2M | France striker, Ligue 1 goalscorer |
| Kelechi Iheanacho | Forward | 28 | Sevilla | €4M | Nigeria international, Premier League experience |
Why These Players Remain Unsigned
The beauty of the free agent market lies in timing and circumstances. Takehiro Tomiyasu left Arsenal by mutual consent after missing virtually the entire 2024-25 season due to knee surgery, while Christian Eriksen concluded his three-year stint at Manchester United without securing a immediate move elsewhere.
The Injury Factor
Tomiyasu is still recovering from knee surgery performed earlier this year, which explains his cautious approach to signing with a new club. The Japanese defender has stated he wants to focus on rehabilitation before committing to his next destination, making him a potential bargain for patient clubs.
Market Dynamics
Many of these players are holding out for the right opportunity rather than accepting the first offer. Eriksen is reportedly waiting for a move to a “big club,” while others are weighing their options between European competition and lucrative moves to emerging markets.
Hidden Opportunities for Clubs
Premier League Proven Talent
Several players on this list have extensive Premier League experience. Sergio Reguilón played just 300 minutes for Tottenham last season, but his quality remains unquestioned. Meanwhile, Kurt Zouma ended his four-year stint with West Ham and could provide defensive solidity for ambitious clubs.
International Pedigree
The free agent pool is rich with international experience. Hakim Ziyech was one of the breakout stars of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, helping Morocco reach the semifinals. His creativity and technical ability could unlock new dimensions for the right tactical system.
Serie A Legends
Lorenzo Insigne left Napoli in 2022 after a decade as the club’s biggest star and key player for the Italian national team. After his MLS adventure with Toronto FC, the diminutive forward is reportedly considering a return to European football, with Serie A clubs monitoring his situation.
Strategic Value for Smart Clubs
The current free agent market represents extraordinary value for several reasons:
Cost Efficiency: No transfer fees mean clubs can allocate more resources to wages and signing bonuses, potentially attracting higher-caliber players than their budgets would typically allow.
Immediate Impact: These aren’t development projects – they’re experienced professionals who can contribute immediately to first-team squads.
Squad Depth: Perfect for clubs needing to bolster their benches without major financial outlay, especially important for European competition.
What’s Next for These Stars?
The summer 2025 transfer window officially closed, but players who are free of any contract can still sign wherever they want. This creates ongoing opportunities for clubs to strengthen their squads throughout the season.
Championship and Beyond
Championship sides Birmingham City and Sheffield United have both been linked with Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, suggesting that even second-tier clubs can access top-level talent through the free agent route.
European Returns
Many of these players are seeking returns to Europe’s top leagues. Ziyech is reportedly seeking a return to Europe after his stints in Turkey and Qatar, while others are weighing offers from multiple continents.
The Bottom Line
TL;DR: The free agent market in 2025 offers unprecedented access to proven international talent from Europe’s biggest clubs. From World Cup heroes to Premier League veterans, smart clubs can secure game-changing signings without transfer fees.
For clubs operating with tight budgets or looking to add experienced depth, this free agent pool represents a golden opportunity. With options ranging from youth to experience, this pool of free agents could still reshape squads well after the transfer window’s close.
The smart money isn’t always on the biggest transfers – sometimes the best deals are the ones that cost nothing upfront but deliver everything on the pitch.
Stay updated with the latest football transfers and free agent signings by following official sources like UEFA and FIFA for authoritative transfer news.
Read more: Breaking Records: Top 10 Most Expensive Signings of 2025 Summer Transfer Window
